Nothing last forever

(Image courtesy of sportinglife.com)

Rio Grande Herald Sports Writer:
Gerald Salinas

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2009, the Indianapolis Colts release their star, franchise-2nd all time receptions, play-making receiver, Marvin Harrison.

Harrison, a 185 pound 6-0 tall, straight out of Syracuse, 13 year receiver for the Colts has played his last game for the Colts. In the 08-09 season. The departure between the two was inevitable in these last weeks. Harrison has slowly been creeping his way down to the 3rd slot receiver behind Reggie Wayne who has clearly been thrown-to more than Harrison and behind Anthony Gonzales (Peyton Manning's new favorite target) was just not going to work for another season.

Harrison was never really the same during and after the 07 season due to injuries and an off season knee surgery. He missed 5 games in the 07 season played the 08-09 season, but missing a step. Of course the Colts will never admit to that.

As made clearly in the press conference this wasn't an ugly break-up, but a mutual one. Harrison being 36 knowing he wasn't the go-to guy anymore. The Colts who, not happily, willing to pay $13.4 million in the 09 cap, made things easier for each other. The Colts now save $6 million but still $7.4 million prorated bonus money in the books. And Harrison deserving has a chance to resurrect his career, whom whichever team will pick him up. And why wouldn't they? Harrison has 471 more receptions, 5,305 more receiving yards and 60 more touchdown receptions than any other receiver in Colts' history.

Marvin Harrison All-Time Colts Ranks
		Franchise rank	Next best*
Receptions	1,102	1st	631
Rec yds	14,580	1st	9,275
Rec TD	128	1st	68

I actually like this move for both the team and player. It wasn't about the money, but more about respect. Harrison is an elite WR, but his 13 years with the Colts, (who granted his release) has simply wore out. Peyton Manning along with the organization stated "Marvin will always be a Colt in my book"

Harrison you are a gifted WR, now go help out other teams in great need, like the Eagles, the Seahawks, Bears, or even the Raiders. Wherever team you land up with, you will be well utilized.